By Margaret Paul, Ph.D.

In the 37 years that I have been counseling individuals, I have worked with many people who have suffered from severe physical, emotional, and/or sexual abuse in childhood. Many who have sought my help were suffering from fear and anxiety, depression, various addictions, relationship problems and sexual problems. Many of these people had no memory of their childhood and had no idea why there were so unhappy. Many had spent years in therapy yet had never remembered their abuse.

The reason they could not remember the traumatic events of their childhood is because the child or children within, who suffered the abuse, did not feel safe in revealing the abuse. These unconscious inner parts were protecting the person from reliving the horrible pain of the past. These inner children knew that the adult self did not have the strength to learn about and manage the information and the feelings.

In order to remember and heal traumatic events from the past that are affecting you today, you need to have a strong and loving Adult self who is capable of managing emotional pain. Without this loving inner Adult, you may get so flooded and overwhelmed with the feelings of traumatic memories that you cannot function.

The gentle, transformational Inner Bonding process that we teach is a process for developing this strong, loving Adult self. The loving Adult is the aspect of us that is connected with a powerful and loving Source of spiritual guidance - whatever this is for you. Learning and practicing the Inner Bonding process develops your ability to connect with your personal Source of spiritual guidance. It is your connection with your guidance that gives you the strength to manage the intensely painful feelings of childhood abuse.

Once the inner children who hold the memories feel safe that there is a loving Adult self who is capable of managing the feelings, you will start to remember your past. As these memories come up, you will begin to understand the conclusions you drew about yourself that are currently causing your pain. Almost all children who have been abused draw erroneous conclusions about themselves as a result of the abuse - false beliefs such as, "I'm not important." "I have no worth." "I am just an object for others' use." "I am not lovable." "I should never have been born." "I would be better off dead." "I don't deserve love." "I am a bad person." It is these beliefs that are causing your present pain.

Healing from childhood abuse is not just about remembering the past. It is about remembering the very good reasons you had for drawing the conclusions that are currently causing you such pain. It is about gently and lovingly acknowledging what happened that led to your present beliefs that are now limiting you. It is about learning how to access the truth from your spiritual source so that you can move out of lies that you are telling yourself that are causing your current pain.

Most of us learn to treat ourselves based on how we were treated and how our parents or caregivers treated themselves. When your parents abused you, they were also not taking loving care of themselves and were not role modeling loving self-care. As long as you treat yourself the way your parents or other caregivers treated you and themselves, you will suffer. Healing from childhood abuse is about developing your loving Adult self so that you can learn to treat your inner child or inner children the way you always wanted to be treated.

You CAN fully heal from childhood abuse, but only through learning to access and bring into your being the love, truth, wisdom and strength of your spiritual guidance. Through learning and practicing the Inner Bonding process, you will discover the incredibly beautiful and perfect essence within you - the part of you that was never damaged by the abuse. This is your true Self that will emerge as you heal the false beliefs of your wounded self. This is what will happen as you develop your loving Adult self through learning and practicing the Inner Bonding process.

Margaret Paul, Ph.D. best-selling author of eight books, and co-creator of the powerful Inner Bonding healing process. Visit her web site for a FREE Inner Bonding course: http://www.innerbonding.com or email her at mailto:margaret@innerbonding.com.

By John Pawlett

They tend to smile more readily and enjoy life. These kids are realistic and generally optimistic. Its also been shown that children who feel important are well-rounded, respectful, and excel in academics, extracurricular activities and hobbies and develop healthy relationships with their peers. In contrast, for children who do not feel important or cherished have low self-esteem, and challenges can become sources of major anxiety and frustration. Children who think poorly of themselves have a hard time finding solving problems, and may become passive, withdrawn, or depressed.

You are the biggest influence in your child feeling important, valued and worthy. Remember to praise your child for a job well done, and also for putting for a valiant effort. Praise the good traits they naturally possess, and help them find ways to learn from their mistakes and failures.

Be honest and sincere in your praise. Help them realize that you also suffer from self doubt and can make mistakes from time to time, but that you know that you are important, valued and loved. When you nurture your own self -esteem and importance, your child will learn to do the same, so be sure to lead by example and steer clear of self-depreciating yourself or engaging in activities that lower your self-worth or importance. Your child may have inaccurate or irrational beliefs about themselves, their abilities or their traits. Accentuate the positive about your child, and encourage your child to set realistic expectations and standards for themselves. Help them identify traits or skills theyd like to improve and help them come up with a game plan for accomplishing that goal.

Encourage your child to become involved in cooperative activities that foster a sense of teamwork and accomplishment. Through these and other positive, affirming activities, your child is sure to develop a strong sense of self importance, value and worth which will carry into their adult years.

Clear Expectations Make Discipline Easier Sometimes it can be very challenging to communicate anything with your child. Setting clear expectations regarding whats acceptable behavior and what isnt imperative to successfully teaching your child right from wrong. If the parameters are muddled or the child learns that in one situation the rules hold true yet in another situation the same rule does not, it makes for confusion and frustration on both sides.

Sit down with your child well in advance and line out the expectations and consequences of misbehaving or a misdeed. Make it clear that in no uncertain terms is there any room for negotiation at the time of the infraction, and that should such a behavior occur you intend to be firm in your discipline.

Rules regarding your childs safety, health or well-being should have no room for negotiation when being set or enforced. Other rules can be openly and honestly discussed with your child and an agreed upon action should be forged that both parents and child can agree upon. If necessary, make a contract between parent and child. Lay it all out in black and white, in language your child can clearly understand.

For younger children, you might want to develop a good behavior chart within the contract, and for each week that goes by without any infractions being noted, a favorite or special activity might be earned. The connection between good deeds and special time with mom and/or dad might be just the currency they understand.

But all children need to understand that disciplining them is your way of teaching them whats acceptable behavior and what isnt. It may seem as though children fight rules and regulations, but they truly know that such parameters are meant for their well-being, health, safety, and enable them to grow into a mature person capable of making wise decisions.

Cast Children is an informative resources site on everything Child Acting related. Find out how Cast Children can expand your horizons.

By John Pawlett

They tend to smile more readily and enjoy life. These kids are realistic and generally optimistic. Its also been shown that children who feel important are well-rounded, respectful, and excel in academics, extracurricular activities and hobbies and develop healthy relationships with their peers. In contrast, for children who do not feel important or cherished have low self-esteem, and challenges can become sources of major anxiety and frustration. Children who think poorly of themselves have a hard time finding solving problems, and may become passive, withdrawn, or depressed.

You are the biggest influence in your child feeling important, valued and worthy. Remember to praise your child for a job well done, and also for putting for a valiant effort. Praise the good traits they naturally possess, and help them find ways to learn from their mistakes and failures.

Be honest and sincere in your praise. Help them realize that you also suffer from self doubt and can make mistakes from time to time, but that you know that you are important, valued and loved. When you nurture your own self -esteem and importance, your child will learn to do the same, so be sure to lead by example and steer clear of self-depreciating yourself or engaging in activities that lower your self-worth or importance. Your child may have inaccurate or irrational beliefs about themselves, their abilities or their traits. Accentuate the positive about your child, and encourage your child to set realistic expectations and standards for themselves. Help them identify traits or skills theyd like to improve and help them come up with a game plan for accomplishing that goal.

Encourage your child to become involved in cooperative activities that foster a sense of teamwork and accomplishment. Through these and other positive, affirming activities, your child is sure to develop a strong sense of self importance, value and worth which will carry into their adult years.

Clear Expectations Make Discipline Easier Sometimes it can be very challenging to communicate anything with your child. Setting clear expectations regarding whats acceptable behavior and what isnt imperative to successfully teaching your child right from wrong. If the parameters are muddled or the child learns that in one situation the rules hold true yet in another situation the same rule does not, it makes for confusion and frustration on both sides.

Sit down with your child well in advance and line out the expectations and consequences of misbehaving or a misdeed. Make it clear that in no uncertain terms is there any room for negotiation at the time of the infraction, and that should such a behavior occur you intend to be firm in your discipline.

Rules regarding your childs safety, health or well-being should have no room for negotiation when being set or enforced. Other rules can be openly and honestly discussed with your child and an agreed upon action should be forged that both parents and child can agree upon. If necessary, make a contract between parent and child. Lay it all out in black and white, in language your child can clearly understand.

For younger children, you might want to develop a good behavior chart within the contract, and for each week that goes by without any infractions being noted, a favorite or special activity might be earned. The connection between good deeds and special time with mom and/or dad might be just the currency they understand.

But all children need to understand that disciplining them is your way of teaching them whats acceptable behavior and what isnt. It may seem as though children fight rules and regulations, but they truly know that such parameters are meant for their well-being, health, safety, and enable them to grow into a mature person capable of making wise decisions.

Cast Children is an informative resources site on everything Child Acting related. Find out how Cast Children can expand your horizons.

By Margaret Tye

Are you trying to cope with a troubled teen? Most teenagers go through a difficult period, it's part of becoming independent, but when their behaviour becomes anti-social, their schooling is suffering or they seem unduly depressed, then you should think about taking action. If your troubled teen seems depressed and lacking self motivation, but is unwilling to talk to you, then they may need counselling.

An out of control teen also needs to be given the opportunity to discuss any issues they may have before more drastic measures are taken, such a school for troubled teens, a boot camp or a troubled teen program. As parents, none of us are perfect and you may have to examine how you are disciplining your teen, to see if it is consistent and appropriate. It is not an easy to remain calm and rational when dealing with a troubled teen whose behaviour seems totally irrational, but that is what you must do. All families need a set of rules and values that should be adhered to, if the rules are broken, the punishment must be consistent.

Firstly you need to look at your teen's behaviour and examine the form that it is taking. Are they out of control at home but performing well at school and not getting into trouble with the law? If that is the case, then you should be looking at the rules of behaviour you have set, to see whether you are being consistent in punishment when those rules are broken. Children of any age will push boundaries if they think they can get away with it. If they know you are soft but school is tough, they will act accordingly.

If your troubled teen is having problems at school, whether it is falling grades, truancy or getting expelled, obviously the first thing to do is try to find the cause and a possible solution before you need to resort to more drastic measures, such as a boarding school for troubled teens, a boot camp or a troubled teen program.

A depressed teen needs help urgently before the situation worsens. Even if your teen is willing to talk to you, they may not fully understand why they are feeling as they do. If you are unable to resolve the problem, speak to your physician. He or she may advise on a professional who knows how to find the root cause.

Most parents will tell you how awful the teen years are, but fortunately most troubled teens develop into well adjusted adults. If there is a real problem, the sooner you intervene with the right guiding hand, the better their chances.

Advice on health matters should always be confirmed with a doctor and no liability is accepted for any action taken.

Margaret Tye runs the FromTots2Teens website that offers information on supplies for children of all ages as well as advice on health and other child and teenage related problems. You are welcome to use this article as long as the author is acknowledged and the article is linked back to
From Tots 2 Teens

 

By Jerry Stearns

When adult children constantly ask their parents for money even after they have moved out on their own, the habit can be an indication that the child was never fully taught the importance of money management. They may not know how to make their own paycheck stretch properly for instance, or they may not understand the concept of how quickly money can disappear when you spend a few dollars here and a few dollars there. The adult child may also not understand the concept of credit accounts and cards, and if this is the case they are headed for some serious financial trouble in their future.

An adult child who constantly asks their parents for money is usually very used to getting money from their parents. In other words, the parents rarely if ever say no, and things have been that way for many years of their lives. When a child gets money from Mom or Dad anytime they want it as theyre growing up, they often continue the same habits and beliefs once theyre grown too. And unfortunately, Mom and Dad often continue handing out the cash even though the child is now an adult.

After a time of handing over money to your adult child regularly, most parents start becoming frustrated and wonder when the child will ever actually start standing on their own two feet. If however, the parents have fostered this behavior when the child still lived at home, and theyve been fostering it for some time after the child moved out to live as an adult on their own, then it will take some time and difficult steps to break the habits too.

As a responsible parent, you need to make sure your child is able to take care of themselves properly as an adult. And money management is one of the most important skills for you to teach them. It is easier to help teach your child money management skills before they reach adulthood, but all is not lost if theyre now adults and continuously expecting you to give them money.

By Larry A. Johnson

The pros and cons of homeschooling are many, but do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? With total control over your childs homeschooling needs you have the flexibility to teach your child values that cannot be taught in a public classroom. On the other hand your time will not be as free as it used to be.

The education a child can gain from a loving and concerned parent will be much greater than is possible to receive in a public school system. You dont need a teaching credential or even a college degree, just the desire to give your child a quality education. If there are subjects that you dont feel comfortable teaching it is possible to hire a tutor for those classes. And on the positive side your home school curriculum can incorporate other things such as your own religious and moral beliefs, something that will not be taught in a public school system. By taking control of a childs education a parent can shape that childs value system better than anyone else.

There are two main requirements necessary to achieve a rewarding home schooling experience for both you and your child. Obviously you must have a desire to teach your children, that is number one. If you are doing it out of duty or obligation you may soon find yourself in way over your head and wanting to get out. The second requirement is determination. You must truly want your child to succeed and be willing to put forth the time and effort it takes for your child to reach his or her potential. With these two ingredients your child may be able to realize an education that could not be achieved in a public classroom.

You, more than anyone else, want your child to reach their full potential. This is usually not possible in a crowded classroom environment. A child, to learn at their best, must have one-on-one instruction from someone who truly cares for them. And who better than you can give that to them? Public school teachers are overwhelmed by the sheer number of students they must control every day. With the many different learning styles, discipline problems, regulations that need to be followed and other factors a public school teacher cannot spend the individual time with each child that is necessary to bring out that childs best. Home schooling can help children to blossom and bring out a childs full potential like nothing else can.

Do you have doubts about your ability to teach? All you have to do to overcome your fear is to visit a public classroom for a day. Visit a kindergarten class or a first grade class and you will see that much of the time spent is merely controlling the childrens behavioral problems. And the lessons that are taught are usually very simple. In a one-on-one home atmosphere you will be able to progress at your own pace.

With a few home school books and lesson plans you will be able to get started very easily. Remember, you are starting your teaching experience with a very young child. And you will actually be able to learn as you go. With a little preparation it is possible to grow with your child. And the first time you see some of your instruction sink into your childs brain you will feel satisfied that you are performing a very important task. You will surely be surprised at how effective you can be as your childs homeschool instructor.

Public school teachers have their curriculum all laid out for them. They must follow programs and use materials that others have already approved for them. They must also move at a predetermined pace so that they can get through their study programs even if it means going forward at the expense of a child understanding what has been taught. You, on the other hand, can come up with your own homeschooling curriculum which can include religious or moral beliefs. You can take a field trip anytime you desire. You can make sure your child fully grasps a specific subject before moving forward. This will allow your child the opportunity to learn as they should be learning and at a pace they can keep up with. In a public system the slower children are often left behind.

There are negatives as well as positives however. The biggest negative to home schooling is your time. Your child will most likely receive a more rewarding education at home, but you will be devoting lots of your time to this cause. This could be a big sacrifice, especially if you are struggling financially and need to work. However, with a real desire you may be able to live without luxuries that will give you the time you need to offer your child the education they deserve. Search the internet for lesson plans, other pros and cons, christian home schooling information, home schooling requirements, home schooling books, eclectic homeschooling and other topics of interest. After researching this subject you may find that teaching your child will be even more rewarding for you than it is for your child. If you would like to develop a special bond with your child homeschooling may be the way.

This article is presented by Home Schooling Materials, an online source for home schooling materials. Find resources for homeschooling supplies and benefits.

By Larry Johnson

The pros and cons of homeschooling are many, but do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? With total control over your childs homeschooling needs you have the flexibility to teach your child values that cannot be taught in a public classroom. On the other hand your time will not be as free as it used to be.

The education a child can gain from a loving and concerned parent will be much greater than is possible to receive in a public school system. You dont need a teaching credential or even a college degree, just the desire to give your child a quality education. If there are subjects that you dont feel comfortable teaching it is possible to hire a tutor for those classes. And on the positive side your home school curriculum can incorporate other things such as your own religious and moral beliefs, something that will not be taught in a public school system. By taking control of a childs education a parent can shape that childs value system better than anyone else.

There are two main requirements necessary to get the full benefit of home schooling for both you and your child. Obviously you must have a desire to teach your children, that is number one. If you are doing it out of duty or obligation you may soon find yourself in way over your head and wanting to get out. The second requirement is determination. You must truly want your child to succeed and be willing to put forth the time and effort it takes for your child to reach his or her potential. With these two ingredients your child may be able to realize an education that could not be achieved in a public classroom.

You, more than anyone else, want your child to reach their full potential. This is usually not possible in a crowded classroom environment. A child, to learn at their best, must have one-on-one instruction from someone who truly cares for them. And who better than you can give that to them? Public school teachers are overwhelmed by the sheer number of students they must control every day. With the many different learning styles, discipline problems, regulations that need to be followed and other factors a public school teacher cannot spend the individual time with each child that is necessary to bring out that childs best. Home schooling can help children to blossom and bring out a childs full potential like nothing else can.

Do you have doubts about your ability to teach? All you have to do to overcome your fear is to visit a public classroom for a day. Visit a kindergarten class or a first grade class and you will see that much of the time spent is merely controlling the childrens behavioral problems. And the lessons that are taught are usually very simple. In a one-on-one home atmosphere you will be able to progress at your own pace.

With a few home school books and lesson plans you will be able to get started very easily. Remember, you are starting your teaching experience with a very young child. And you will actually be able to learn as you go. With a little preparation it is possible to grow with your child. And the first time you see some of your instruction sink into your childs brain you will feel satisfied that you are performing a very important task. You will surely be surprised at how effective you can be as your childs homeschool instructor.

Public school teachers have their curriculum all laid out for them. They must follow programs and use materials that others have already approved for them. They must also move at a predetermined pace so that they can get through their study programs even if it means going forward at the expense of a child understanding what has been taught. You, on the other hand, can come up with your own homeschooling curriculum which can include religious or moral beliefs. You can take a field trip anytime you desire. You can make sure your child fully grasps a specific subject before moving forward. This will allow your child the opportunity to learn as they should be learning and at a pace they can keep up with. In a public system the slower children are often left behind.

There are negatives as well as positives however. The biggest negative to home schooling is your time. Your child will most likely receive a more rewarding education at home, but you will be devoting lots of your time to this cause. This could be a big sacrifice, especially if you are struggling financially and need to work. However, with a real desire you may be able to live without luxuries that will give you the time you need to offer your child the education they deserve. Search the internet for lesson plans, the advantage of homeschooling, christian home schooling information, home schooling requirements, home schooling books, eclectic homeschooling and other topics of interest. After researching this subject you may find that teaching your child will be even more rewarding for you than it is for your child. If you would like to develop a special bond with your child homeschooling may be the way.

This article is brought to you by Home Schooling Materials, an online site for home school curriculum resources. Discover references for free online home schooling, eclectic homeschooling, homeschooling books and much more.

By Kingston Amadan

Bipolar disorder is a treatable brain disorder marked by extreme shifts in a person's mood and disposition. Periods of intense mania are followed by bouts of severe depression, often with periods of normalcy in between. While on either end of the spectrum, sufferers of bipolar disorder often find it difficult to concentrate and maintain functionality sufficient for leading a productive life. Those who experience severe episodes of depression and hypomania are classified as suffering from bipolar II disorder, which women are diagnosed with more often than men. It is estimated that over two million Americans have a form of bipolar disorder, although many may be unaware of it. Bipolar disorder can develop at any time, however, most will experience the onset of symptoms in the post adolescence/early adulthood phase of their life. Fortunately, bipolar disorder can be treated but must be managed for long term success. Recognizing the symptoms of bipolar disorder is often the first step toward proper diagnosis and treatment.

The manic phases of bipolar disorder can be marked by an increase in energy, restlessness, irritability, the inability to concentrate, aggressiveness, euphoria, irrational thought and limited sleep, among other symptoms. The depression phase of bipolar disorder can be marked by feelings of sadness, guilt, helplessness, pessimism and agitation, as well as weight fluctuation, disturbed sleep patterns and a loss of interest in life. Suicidal thoughts may be present during prolonged periods of depression as well.

The importance of recognizing the symptoms of bipolar disorder cannot be overstated as many who suffer from it are improperly diagnosed because of the nature of their condition. Sufferers may feel that the extreme shifts in mood they are experiencing are simply the ebb and flow of life. They may seek help during periods of depression and not disclose their manic behavior because they associate it with happiness or normalcy. Recent attention paid to bipolar disorder and bipolar II disorder in the media, however, has helped to educate the population. Just as both forms of bipolar disorder have become more widely recognized by the medical community, the general public is also more aware than ever of their existence. Guidance is available for those who exhibit some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder as there are now many excellent resources for detailed information, both in print and on the web. Anyone who feels they may be suffering from bipolar disorder should always consult their physician. With proper treatment, those who have experienced the debilitating nature of this affliction can go on to lead healthy, productive lives.

Visit our site to learn more about Bipolar treatment You can also learn bout other disorders such as anxiety treatment or depression treatment

By MaryLynne White

When a child responds angrily to a parents message, that message has not gone to the thinking part of the childs brain. No, it has not reached the front part of the brain that does logical, rational thinking and problem solving. It has actually traveled to the part of the brain dealing with emotions. Most people know this as the limbic system, which is located in the central part of the brain. I call this the lizard part of the brain because it has no thinking abilities whatsoever; it merely reacts.

Have you ever noticed how angry, upset children (and some adults) appear as irrational? Theyre in the lizard part of their brain and cant think straight. Theyre not trying to control and manipulate you. Whats happening is something lying underneath the surface of their conscious mind. Underneath the anger is a feeling of fear. Its totally unconscious so usually both parents and children are unaware of it. When a child becomes angry and moves toward a temper tantrum stage of feelings, what the child is non-verbally telling you is: • 'I cant think–Im in the lizard part of my brain and I dont know how to get out of it to the thinking part where I can talk you in a way that makes sense.' • 'I need your help–I dont know what to do; Ive become so upset, Ive regressed to about the age of 2 or 3.' Would you expect a 2 year old to be able to sit down and have a rational, logical conversation with you? I dont think so! And yet, that is the very thing many parents attempt to do when their child is angry and upset. Can you see the waste of energy that gets expended doing this?

What you as a parent can do to help your angry child is to remain calm. Think like a super nanny on the front lines of parenting. The first thing you have to do is to help your child move to the thinking part of his or her brain. To do this, calmly (and with no sarcasm) 1. Ask your child, 'What part of your brain do you think youre using right now, the lizard part or the thinking part?' if the answer is, 'lizard part', then ask, 2. Is that working for you? Are you getting what you want?' If your child tells you 'no', then go the next question, 3. 'What do you need to do to get back to the thinking part of your brain?' If the child says, 'I dont know,' let him or her know you can see the shift has already happened because your child is answering your questions. This is a good thing! 4. If your child has calmed down a bit, ask if he or she needs some time to think about what just happened so you can talk about it together and come up with a way to handle the situation differently next time. If the child responds with a 'no', give a hug and say something like, 'You are always so much nicer when youre using the thinking part of your brain.' Then, walk away.

The next time, youre faced with an angry child ask yourself two important questions before you respond: 1. What part of the brain is my child using right now? 2. At what age do I usually see these behaviors in a child If your child is in the lizard part of the brain and acting like a toddler, this would not be a good time to talk. Get your child so he or she can think rationally, calm down and then go for the talk. You cant talk to a toddler (or anyone else for that matter) when hes upset. Help him calm down simply by acknowledging his angry feelings and be there with a smile and a hug (regardless of how youre feeling). This is a small gesture and will pay big benefits for you down the road.

MaryLynne White Can a Game Really Compel Any Child to Behave? 'How to Become a Super Nanny in Your Own Home! Free Consumer Awareness Guide Shows You How…' http://www.ParentSurvival911.com

MaryLynne has been in the field of child development and counseling, as well as educating and coaching parents professionally for several years. She has assisted families from all over the country to become happier, more structured and improved relationships between children and their parents.

By Peter Emerson

Psychology is by no means only the study of adult minds and emotions. In an increasingly complex and stress-oriented world, children are just as affected by the abnormalities of daily life as adults are. The sad story of modern society speaks of child abuse, incest, family discord, drug and alcohol abuse, and other major problems.

Had child psychology been a better understood subject three or four decades ago, the present rate of juvenile crime and delinquency might not have reached such alarming proportions. It is the feelings about and reactions to the inputs during childhood that formulate a youth's policies and beliefs for future life.

In addition, there are many problems, unrelated to environmental and social circumstances that affect children in particular. Child psychology addresses clinical problems that beset children and early adolescents. These include mental retardation, autism, learning impairments such as dyslexia, behavior disorders and complications born of deafness, blindness, and the like. Many children's speech impairments can also be resolved by a trained child psychologist.

It is now well known that psychological problems that crop up in childhood can translate into serious consequences like criminality later on. At the very least, unresolved psychological complications can result in an unhappy and traumatized adulthood. These are some of the potholes along the highway of modern life that child psychologists help to fill.

Interestingly, child psychology finds decisive application in the problems faced by especially gifted children, too. Children with learning difficulties face problems with the educational and family systems. In the same manner, so-called prodigies find themselves alienated from mainstream life by virtue of their exceptional talents and capabilities. In every imbalance of early and late childhood, a child psychologist can avert serious problems.

Psychology provides detailed information on Psychology, Online Psychology Degrees, Forensic Psychology, Child Psychology and more. Psychology is affliated with Mountain Retreats.

By Joan Young
Teen Bipolar Disorder

Over 2 million Americans are known to suffer from a disorder called bipolar disorder. Seven percent of the sufferers are teenagers. Bipolar disorder is also known as manic-depressive; it is a brain disease, which is distinguished by dramatic mood changes, energy levels, and behaviors. There are mainly two different types of extremes, mania and depression. Mania is when energy peaks and moods may be overly euphoric and irritable. Depression is characterized by suicidal thoughts, helplessness, and fatigue.
Teen Bipolar Disorder occurs mainly in the late teens, although it has been diagnosed in children as young as 6 years old. The usual problem lays in identifying the symptoms and reaching for help.
Teen bipolar disorder can be mistaken as ADHD because of the similar signs between the two disorders. When a teen is having mood swings from extreme high to low this should not be overlooked at common irrational behavior, the teen should be taken to a doctor for a check up to see if they have teen bipolar disorder.
If you suspect your child to have teen bipolar disorder take the time to watch his/her behavior in order to recognize some of these common symptoms.
Manic symptoms include:
* Severe changes in mood - extremely irritable or overly good
* Increased energy
* Lack of sleep for long periods of time
* Increased speed of speech, jumping from idea to idea quickly without much connection between them
* Lack of concentration
* Increased goal-directed activity or physical agitation
* Hyper sexuality
* Unrealistic talk such as relating to fantasy happenings in real life
Depressive symptoms in teen bipolar disorder include:
* Persistent sadness
* No interest in once pleasurable activities
* Insomnia or over sleeping
* Loss of energy or fatigue
* Difficulty in concentrating
* Feeling of emptiness/worthlessness
* Physical agitation or slowing
* Suicidal thought and actions
Teen bipolar disorder is a life long disease, which cannot be cured; however it can be successfully treated with medications and therapy. Family and friends play a huge role in treating this disease successfully.
To help a teen with teen bipolar disorder a person should do the following:
Keep a routine
Talk to teachers
Follow the medication schedule
Monitor side effects
Consider family therapy
Take suicidal threats seriously
Even though teenagers can be difficult to deal with its better to seek professional help as soon as possible rather then disregard it as a tantrum and live to regret it later. Teen bipolar disorder is not to be neglected but dealt with carefully and as soon as possible for best results.
Joan Young is an expert author on bipolar disorder and other health related issues. She is an author on Joan Young is an expert author on bipolar disorder and other health related issues. She is an author on http://www.bipolardisordersymptom.org/Guide-To-Teen-Bipolar-Disorder.html

Joan Young writes for various mental health issues including bipolar disorder. She currently writes articles for bipolardisordersymptom.org.

By Li Ming Wong

Pediatric bipolar disorder, or manic depression, is a mental illness that presents itself in patients as mood swings or mood cycling. Pediatric bipolar type one patients tend to experience episodes of mania alternating with periodic episodes of depression. Pediatric bipolar type two patients tend to experience episodes of depression interspersed with periodic episodes of mild mania. Depression symptoms include anger, extreme sadness, sleeping too much, and feelings of worthlessness. Manic symptoms include bursts of rage, extreme happiness, increased energy, hyperactivity, distractibility, sleeping too little, and obsessive behaviors.

Pediatric bipolar disorder is caused by a combination of neurological, biological, emotional, and environmental factors. Not all factors are present in every case, although most cases include biological and environmental factors. Little is known about the exact causes of pediatric bipolar disorder. However, advances are being made in this area.

Asperger's disorder can be described as a mild form of autism. Actually, asperger's disorder is a type of pervasive development disorder that can cause developmental issues, especially in the areas of communication and social development. Symptoms of asperger's disorder include problems with social skills, odd or repetitive behavior or habits, communication difficulties, and obsession with a limited range of interests.

The causes of asperger's disorder are not yet known. Studies show that asperger's disorder tends to run in families, meaning that it is hereditary. This fact shows that the underlying cause of asperger's disorder must be biological, meaning that it is either genetic or neurologically related.

Pediatric bipolar disorder can be misdiagnosed as asperger's disorder because pediatric bipolar disorder can present itself via symptoms such as obsessive compulsive behavior, odd habits, and bouts of rage. Patients of pediatric bipolar disorder and asperger's disorder both have symptoms that lead to lacking social development skills, educational issues, behavioral issues, and anger issues.

Pediatric bipolar can also be present in conjunction with asperger's disorder. Typically, this is the case. It is unknown, however, if the pediatric bipolar disorder is a result of the asperger's disorder, or if the same neurological issues that cause asperger's disorder are related to the chemical imbalances in the brain thought to be the cause of pediatric bipolar disorder. Answers to these questions will likely come to light as research in neurological, technological and psychiatric areas continue to progress.

Medication treatments for pediatric bipolar and asperger's disorders are quite similar. There are no medications for asperger's disorder; however, medications exist to treat the symptoms of asperger's disorder. Since the symptoms of asperger's disorder, such as depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, and anxiety, are the same symptoms often experienced with pediatric bipolar disorder, the medications used in both instances are the same.

Counseling treatments are also commonly used for both pediatric bipolar and asperger's disorders, used in conjunction with medication or alone. Most asperger's patients do not need medication. Counseling is required, however, to help the patient cope with their disability. Counseling treatments for pediatric bipolar disorder are considered necessary, with or without medication. These treatments can help the patient learn to recognize and correct irrational emotions or behavior.

To learn more, check out Bipolar Disabilities Guide.

By Ryan Rafeh Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depression)
If you already are not aware of this condition, bipolar disorder is "a diagnostic category describing a class of mood disorders where the person experiences states or episodes of depression and/or mania, hypomania, and/or mixed states."(Look at Sources Below)
Bipolar disorder is also known as a manic-depressive illness, which can suddenly shift a person's mood, energy, and their ability to function. As in every person, someone with bipolar disorder has their up's and down's to a much higher level. This is a very serious condition, which can lead to depression.
A sign of this disorder can range anywhere from an usual damaged relationship with a person who is close to you, poor school/job performance, or even thoughts of, or actual suicide. Major mood swings from extreme happiness to extreme irritability (or vice versa) are the most common symptoms of this manic depression. A sign of depression can also be little sleep or even unrealistic beliefs in one's ability. Other commons signs are spending sprees, denial, poor judgment, and increased sexual drive. People with manic depressions can also abuse medications, drugs, and alcohol. The signs of the depression are the about the same as those listed in the previous posts.
So who can get bipolar disorder or manic depression? Just about ANYONE, including kids, teenagers, and adolescents. If any of the signs and symptoms occur for longer than a week's period, consulting a doctor is recommended.
Although bipolar illness is a long term illness, there is hope for controlling the episodes (high and low points). Long-term preventive treatment (medication and psychosocial) is strongly suggested. Also a chart of sleeping patterns, treatment, and daily mood symptoms prove helpful.
Another form of treatment that can be considered is anitdepressant medication.
Sources:
Wikipedia.com,
National Institute of Mental Health

I have a blog about depression.
www.signofdepression.blogspot.com

By Christine Groth

But the question is what are your beliefs on what a good child daycare should be?

This is something for you to definitely think about, for you to find a good child daycare you need to determine what kind of environment you most definitely feel comfortable in.

Here are some of the questions you should be asking yourself before you venture out in looking for a child daycare center.

1. Do you feel more comfortable with a family child daycare or a group child daycare? Both are very different. A family child daycare is usually run by one person who is the owner, and usually out of someones home. A group child daycare is usually out of a commercial building with staff on hand. Children are divided according to ages. For example all babies are in one room, all toddlers in another, and so on.You get the idea. Family child daycares usually mix all ages together, but family daycares are small- only about 8 children per center. Group centers can be very large. Perhaps up to 250 children in one center.

2.What is the policy of the child care center? Be sure to ask what there rules are regarding sickness, time off, vacations, paid holidays, emergencies. Make sure that you are clear on what these policies are; be clear on what the child daycare center is expecting of you and vice versa. Many times this is how parents and child daycare centers get into disagreement. Not over the actual childcare provided but over the policies established by the center.

3. Do you trust the provider who will be taking care of your child? If you dont trust the provider chances are you will leave the center. Also understand that child daycares arent perfect. Anytime you leave your home you take the risk of error. Im not trying to protect the child daycare center, but people do make errors and understand that children will be children. They will argue, get dirty, hit their friends and so one but realize that they are learning and this is their nature at such a young age.

I think that the above questions are so important in asking yourself. Realize that choosing a child daycare center is an important decision. Children need consistency and stable loving relationships- this is so much more important then fancy toys and big buildings.

Christine Groth, has helped hundreds of women open their own family childcare centers. An author and mentor she has developed a mentoring system that guarantees their success in small business. To receive her free 3 part newsletter, go to http://www.instantdaycareprofits.com

By Questor

One of the biggest controversies of parenting is the question of privacy or protection? Do you as a parent have the obligation of giving your child his or her privacy or do you as a parent have the responsibility to protect your child at any cost. Are they worth your willingness to do all that is in your power to see they are protected? Are they worth stepping up to the plate for and being the parent and not just a 'friend'. The Bible says in 1 Peter 5:8 'Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour': (KJB). The Bible also says in II Corinthians 2:11 'Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices' (KJB). So if we are not ignorant of satans devices then why would we put our head in the sand and carry on with the delusion that our children are safe on the internet. I am fully aware that the internet is certainly not the only weapon in satans arsenal, but the internet is such a powerful tool that satan uses, it must be examined.

One would have to question; how can something so useful and informative be so destructive at the same time. It is ironic how that at the same time knowledge is power, that knowledge is also weakness. Thats why it would be irrational to think that a child or teen could even remotely be strong enough to withstand the assault that will be placed on him or her while surfing through cyber space. So what about the privacy issue? So many in our society today say that you should give children their privacy and not intrude into their affairs. While I will agree that a child must not be smothered to the point that they do not learn to function properly in society, I also see nowhere in the Word of God that tells me to stay out of my childs business.

My child is my business. Too many today do not want to face the reality of responsibility as a parent. Too many are afraid of rejection if they 'intrude' or enforce rules but it never ceases to amaze me that a child naturally loves his or her parents no matter how good the parents are or how bad they may be. Then as the child grows older the love may still be present but for the parents that do not enforce rules or set boundaries the respect that the child has for the parent is greatly diminished. For a child that is never disciplined, will more often than not loose all respect for any authority, as we see this increasingly prevalent in our world today. You may ask, what does discipline have to do with privacy or protection? Being involved in your childs life in every aspect, no matter if the child wishes you to be or not, is a form of discipline. Therefore it takes discipline to protect your child. We all have heard the vile stories of so many children that have been exploited, stalked, kidnapped, raped, and killed from wicked, monstrous online perverts. Perverts that would come into the childs room night after night by way of internet, prey upon them like a pack of wolves.

Now if you knew that a pervert was in your childs room, would you continue to ignore the emanate danger and allow him or her to retain their privacy? The bottom line is we are the parents. They are the children. We must use common sense and stay informed as to our childrens whereabouts in cyber space. This is a real world and these are real problems. No one cares for your child like you do so why not take the necessary steps to do your part in protecting your child, whether he or she likes it or not. The hard reality is that you are liable and accountable for your child and his or her internet activity. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to assist you in monitoring your child as well as any predators your child may be chatting with. Remember we must do what we can, while we can, for there will come a day when we wish we could, but we cant.

Thank you for you consideration on the subject at hand. Help is available and I have found several effective resources that will help you in Protecting your child Because their worth it! http://www.geocities.com/averagejoebargainhunter/Parental_Control

By Hope Ocampo

Join custody designates one parent as the custodial parent and the childs primary residence is with him/her. About half of the childs time or more will be spent with the primary residential parent, but joint custody lets both parents agree upon major issues like the childs education, health, hobbies, and religion. The discussions regarding these issues between parents sharing joint custody of a child should normally occur well ahead of any final decision-making in order to let both parents participate freely in their childs future.

What if disagreements between parents holding joint custody of a child occur?

Of course, joint custody does not mean that you and the other parent will come to a harmonious agreement regarding every decision about your child. Normally when disagreements occur regarding certain issues, the parent with control of more assets or income may make final decisions regarding finances. The primary residential parent may have final say on other decisions concerning the child. But it is each parents right to take a decision to court if he/she believes that it is what is right for his/her child.

Sole Custody

On the other hand, sole custody may be granted to one parent if both parties have trouble communicating with one another and have difficulty respecting one anothers beliefs.

In what cases is sole custody recommended?

Sole custody may be better in cases where parents cannot see eye to eye regarding their ideals, values, and aspirations for their kids. When two parents cannot come to agreement for the benefit of their child and respect each others opinion regarding the manner in which they wish to raise their child, sole custody may very well be the better option. Of course in situations where a parent is deemed mentally instable, irresponsible, or has inflicted psychological damage to a child, sole custody may be imposed by the court.

What exactly are the rights of the non-custodial parent?

If a parent has sole custody of a child, this does not abolish visitation rights of the non-custodial parent. Joint and sole custody both entitle a non-custodial parent to his/her visitation. If a court deems a parent and/or his/her actions harmful to a child, it may suspend visitation rights of the parent. Although one parent may have sole custody of the child, the court may still impose that the parent with sole custody notifies the non-custodial parent of choices made for the child. The major difference between sole custody and joint custody is that the actual decisions may be made without consultation from the non-custodial parent.

Those parents in the process of divorce must determine if they can respectfully consult with one another regarding decisions about their children in order to determine the best situation for custody.

To learn more about divorce, please visit Divorce Guide.

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By Ann Marier

The different information sources used include family of origin interview, family of creation interview, parent-child observation sessions, if appropriate, interview of the child, standardized parenting vignettes, assessment checklists and inventories as well as other collateral information.

Factors Contributing to Current Parenting Practices

The parenting assessment tools help in understanding factors that contribute to current parenting practices, beliefs as well as skills. It includes parental empathy towards the child as well as child behavior perceptions and expectations of the child. Normally, this form of parental assessment can be finished in three to four sessions with each session being of one and a half hours duration. The assessment is performed by master level professionals who have clinical experience in working with troubled families.

There are other parenting assessments such as the St. Lukes Parenting Assessment and Skills Development Service that believe that children have the right to long term well-being, and children will be unable to develop successfully unless they are given adequate standard of care. Parents always wish the best for their children and strive to give them appropriate care; however, there are also parents in need of assistance, which if not provided, will lead to unsafe behaviors that will require Child Protection involvement.

In any case, parental assessment is all about gathering information from many different sources concerning the needs of the children, the ability of parents to meet such needs, and the skills as well as strengths of the parent. Such information is subjected to analysis in order to present recommendations based on the best interests of the child.

The need for parenting assessment arises out of therapists or lawyers needing to understand the manner in which someone approaches parenting and also helps takes stock of the strengths and weaknesses of such person(s). There are many instances where problems relating to a parents behavior or problems between child and parent need to be addressed so that a decision on behalf of the child can be taken. Parenting assessment is of help to lawyers, Childrens Aid Societies as well as community agencies in deciding what is best for both child and parent. All information gathered will then be submitted to the courts or lawyers or other concerned persons in the form of a written report.

Ann Merier writes articles about the family . Article topics include diabetes,detox diet,yoga,pilates exercise Parenting Assessments Quit Smoking

By Andrew P Schirmacher Jr

Individual attention is another salient benefit of homeschooling. For instance, if Lisa needs more time to learn Math, then she can reduce the time for her English lessons. There are no fixed hours of learning per subject. This means that a child has the advantage of assigning more number of hours to the subject that seems tough WITHOUT any additional pressure. The amount of time needed to learn each subject will depend on the abilities and interests of the child.

The schooling of the child becomes an extended family activity. Parents get involved in every step of the learning procedure. Field trips and experiments become family activities. Thus, the child receives more quality time with his parents. The entire family shares games, chores and projects. Family closeness becomes the focus here. The child is also free of any negative peer pressure while making choices and decisions.

Competition is limited when it comes to homeschooling. The child does not need to prove his ability with regards to other children. His confidence remains intact. Since parents have a deep understanding of their child, they can plan the learning program to pique the childs interest. It is also possible to intersperse difficult tasks with fun activities. A tough hour with Algebra can be followed by a trip to the nearest museum. Learning becomes fun. Parents can also tailor the curriculum to suit the learning style of the child. Some children learn through reading, while others need to write, and still others need to see objects in action.

Homeschooling allows parents to take control over the moral and religious learning of the child. Parents have the flexibility to incorporate their beliefs and ideologies into the childs curriculum. There is no confusion in the childs mind either because there is no variation between what is being taught and what is being practiced.

Lastly, more and more parents are getting disillusioned with the public school system. They believe that their children are being pushed too hard or too little. Other worrying issues pertaining to discipline and ethics also make the school system less welcome. Many repudiate the educational philosophy of grouping children solely on the basis of their age. Some parents themselves have unhappy memories of their own public school experience that motivates them to opt for homeschooling when it comes to their own children.

Homeschooling is the best way to teach a child if you have the time, the ability and the interest to follow through with his education. After all, nobody can understand or appreciate your child more than yourself.

Andrew P Schirmacher Jr www.ebooksalesclub.com/homeschool

I am a graduate of Rutgers University with a degree in Accounting.

By KB Lim

Lets look at some of the benefits of homeschooling over traditional schooling:

1. Flexible Schedule

Homeschooling enables a flexible schedule. For example, the child does not need to wake up at 7 every morning. With homeschooling, your child can start homeschooling at 9am or later depending on your preferred schedule. You can schedule your childs homeschooling education as you see fit with materials or subjects that may be not available in a traditional school.

You can tailor the homeschool curriculum to suit the needs and interest of your child.

2. Individual attention

In a traditional school setting, thirty to forty students are assigned to a teacher in class. Therefore usually, the teacher cannot devote 100 percent attention to any child since it will not be fair to the other children. Plus, it is quite impossible to provide individual attention to all students.

With homeschooling, your child gets all the individual attention he/she needs. For example, if your child is weak in mathematics, you could devote more time and energy into teaching mathematics.

Your childs homeschooling schedule can be adjusted to crater for that. For example, if your child is better at science than at mathematics, simple devote more homeschooling hours to mathematics and cut back on science. With homeschooling, the choice is yours. Traditional schools cant do that.

3. Family Activity

The schooling of the child can become an extended family activity. Examples are field trips and experiments. Plus, the child also receives more quality time with his/her parents. There is more time for family bonding. The child is also free of any negative peer pressure or influences.

4. No peer pressure

With homeschooling, the child does not need to prove his/her abilities to other children. Parents are able to deeply understand their child better with homeschooling and therefore are able to plan the learning program according to his strengths and weakness.

Parents can also change the curriculum to suit the learning style of the child. For example, some children learn better from reading while others need to write. Some children even learn better from experiencing or seeing things in action.

5. Religion Learning

Religious learning is a sensitive issue hence most traditional schools shunned it. However, with homeschooling, parents can take control over the moral and religious learning of the child. Parents can impart their ideologies and deep beliefs into the child rather than let the school dictate what moral and religious education the child will be receiving.

Homeschooling is the best way to educate a child as you can see from the advantages listed below. If you have the time, the interest and the ability, why not give it a try?

Dan Lim is the founder of http://www.homeschooling-guide.info where he regularly write homeschooling articles to help educators and parents. Visit his site for more Home Schooling Resources, Tips and Information

By Li Ming Wong

There may come a time when a person needs to determine if a loved one needs to seek help for his or her problems. In fact, there may come a time for many when it is important to be able to recognize bipolar disorder symptoms.

Bipolar disorder symptoms fall into three main categories. These are manic symptoms, psychotic symptoms, and depressive bipolar disorder symptoms. If several of these symptoms are occurring, it may be time to go in for a consultation.

Manic bipolar disorder symptoms are numerous. They all share a certain feeling, though. Everything is faster, grander, and generally bigger than life. A person in a manic state may be much more active than usual. He or she may think and talk faster than he or she usually does. Everything about that person is exaggerated, including his or her overwhelming feeling of self importance.

Such a person may have grand schemes and adventures in the works. When these plans don't pan out, that person will generally put the blame on some extraneous factor if, in fact, he or she takes the time to consider it at all. Usually, it's simply off to the next idea. These are not just whimsical behaviors, but are actually bipolar disorder symptoms.

When manic, people tend to be reckless. They can end up doing things that effect their personal relationships or may go so far as landing them in jail. This may be seen by someone who is not alert to bipolar disorder symptoms as simply a problem with their conduct. The truth is that those people probably need treatment to do better. It isn't just a matter of making up one's mind to do the right thing.

There are also physical bipolar disorder symptoms of mania that may be quite obvious. A person who feels little or no need for food or sleep may turn out to be in a manic state. While some may be able to function this way, at least for awhile, most of us need rest and sustenance to maintain ourselves.

Psychotic bipolar disorder symptoms come mostly with mania, but can come often with mixed moods and occasionally with depressive bipolar disorder symptoms. Psychosis merely refers to a break with reality. This can come in the form of hallucinations, both auditory (hearing voices, etc.) and visual. Delusions, or false beliefs, are also bipolar disorder symptoms. For example, a person may falsely believe that he or she is actually some famous historical figure.

During depression, bipolar disorder symptoms can often be easily seen if one is willing to look carefully. Apathy may be a sign of depression, but other clues are even more telling. Indecisiveness and low self esteem seem to go hand in hand in depressive bipolar symptoms.

Physical bipolar disorder symptoms of depression include fatigue, weight gain or loss, and eating or sleeping more or less than usual. The person who is displaying bipolar disorder symptoms of depression seems to be telling the world that he or she simply doesn't care enough take good physical care.

One should never look for trouble where there is none. There is no need to be afraid of any slight variation in the moods or habits of a loved one. However, if things just don't seem right, it doesn't hurt to be able to recognize bipolar disorder symptoms.

To learn more, check out Bipolar Disabilities Guide.